Newton Public Schools Strategic Plans Newton Public School’s mission is to educate, prepare, and inspire all students to achieve their full potential as lifelong learners, thinkers, and productive contributors to our global society. In an inspiring demonstration of community collaboration and dedication to student success, NPS embarked on the "Portrait of a Learner" initiative. This visionary project united a diverse 100-member committee, comprising educators, parents, students, and community leaders, to define the essential competencies our students need to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. The committee's collective efforts culminated in a comprehensive framework emphasizing adaptability, empathy, a learner's mindset, critical thinking, and effective communication. These competencies are designed to equip students with the skills necessary for future challenges and opportunities. The development process was marked by extensive community engagement, reflecting Newton's commitment to inclusive and forward-thinking education. Public sessions held in January provided platforms for community members to contribute their insights and aspirations for our students' futures. This collaborative approach ensured that the Portrait of a Learner truly embodies the values and expectations of our entire community. Superintendent Anna Nolin highlighted the initiative's role in energizing the community and setting a clear vision for the district's future. The five competencies selected based on community, student, family, and staff input are: Adaptability • Communication • Critical Thinking • Empathy • Learner's Mindset
The Portrait of a Learner now serves as a guiding framework for NPS, aligning educational strategies with the community's shared vision. It informs curriculum development, teaching methodologies, and assessment practices, ensuring that every student benefits from learning experiences that foster the identified competencies. This initiative not only enhances educational outcomes but also strengthens the bond between the schools and the community, demonstrating a unified commitment to nurturing well-rounded, future-ready graduates. A new Strategic Planning committee was created to look at the District Bridge Goals and new Portrait of a Learner to develop the new five-year strategic plan that will be shared with the community in summer 2025.
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